1976 Ford Taunus vs. 1991 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Taunus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Taunus would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 107 more horse power than 1976 Ford Taunus. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Ford Taunus weights approximately 148 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Because 1976 Ford Taunus is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1976 Ford Taunus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1991 Lotus Elan (143 Nm) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Taunus. (91 Nm). This means 1991 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Taunus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ford Taunus | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Taunus | Elan |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1294 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 160 HP |
| Torque | 91 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 997 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2260 mm |
